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Free talks to discuss future planning for Ireland’s older population

A series of free talks, which will encourage future planning among older people and their families, will take place in the Stillorgan Park Hotel this September, as part of Age Action’s Positive Ageing Week.

Ireland’s ageing population is a topical issue, as the number of people aged 65 and over has grown rapidly, 32.8 per cent, since 2007. The population of those aged 65 and over is predicted to rise from 205,700 in 2016 to 354,600 over 30 years, while the number of those aged 85 and over is expected to increase dramatically, from almost 70,000 to 263,000.

‘Thinking Ahead’ will consist of a series of talks to inform the audience on everything from future-proofing your home and the Fair Deal scheme, to the importance of home care and security for older people, both online and offline.

Christine King, co-founder and Managing Director of Castle Homecare, who are organising the event said: “We see people every day at Castle Homecare, who come to us in a crisis situation and this event is about helping people to put the systems in place before they reach that point”.

Ms King added: “We believe that older people deserve to choose how they live their lives after retirement and our aim with this event is to empower them with the knowledge to ensure that they can be part of the discussion”.

She confirmed that broadcaster Brendan Courtney, who has been an advocate for older people in Ireland since he released a documentary about his father earlier this year, will be among the speakers at the event.

Mr Courtney said that he was “thrilled” to be involved, stating: “I hope to share my personal story to give insight into the challenges faced with ageing. This event is an incredible way to provide valuable information for the public and to inform the audience about measures that can be taken to best prepare for the future”.

Up to 150 people are expected to attend ‘Thinking Ahead’ and the Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Jim Daly, will be officially opening the event on the 28th of September.